Not-quite-daily news and musings from the editor of Children's Writer's & Illustrator's Market

Thursday, September 18, 2008

What I Did on My Summer Vacation (and a First Books Update)...

Well everyone, I'm back from vacation. The hurricane didn't put much of a damper on beach going. It was a little rainy and a little overcast (which is fine with me because I sunburn at the drop of a hat), and gas was $5 a gallon when were were driving home. It was lovely seeing the ocean and even lovelier watching Murray dance in the surf and play in the sand. Here's a glimpse of his typical day at the beach.

I also had a chance to read through and contemplate all of the email I got from debut authors and I've picked my First Books lineup for the 2010 CWIM. I emailed four of you this morning. So if you haven't heard from me, I didn't choose you for this feature, but you may be hearing from me for something else, like a Debut Author of the Month interview.

Thanks so much to all of you who contacted me and congratulations again on your debut books. I wish I could read them all and interview each of you.

I have decided to enter into the world of Children’s Literature. I have an idea for a bilingual children's book series. It was strongly advised that I should pick up a copy of the CWIM 2008 issue to get started. I can’t wait to soak up as much information as I can regarding this industry.

I am in the process of raising my children to learn three languages. My commitment toMulti-lingual education is the driving force for my series.

Any tips that you could offer to get me up to speed and expedite me forward so that I may present my unsolicited series to a publisher like Scholastic Books Inc., would be great.

Is the road as rocky and difficult to break into children’s literatur, as it can be for the adult books industry? I suppose I will find most of these answers when I buy the magazine. I just wanted to introduce myself and say thank you very much for your Blog. Coley from Hampton, VA